Gov. Nathan Deal is backing legislation that would allow state agencies to purchase cars made in Georgia without going through a competitive bid process.
House Bill 259 was introduced Tuesday by several of Deal's top allies in the state Legislature. It would let state purchasing agents skirt the bidding process if they're purchasing "light duty" cars that are constructed or assembled within the state.
Kia Motors is Georgia's only major auto manufacturer, and thousands of employees work at its West Point-based plant and a string of nearby suppliers. But it could soon have company.
The Atlanta Journal-Constitution reported last week that Deal was trying to recruit British auto giant Jaguar Land Rover to build a new manufacturing plant in Georgia.
The competitive bidding process is outlined in a series of state regulations that require sealed proposals, public advertising of many contracts and other restrictions.
State Rep. Terry Rogers, a Clarkesville Republican who sponsored the measure, referred an inquiry on the legislation to the governor's office. Deal's spokesman Brian Robinson said it was a way for state agencies to support Georgia businesses.
“While Kia is the only major manufacturer currently assembling cars in the state, we certainly hope to bring in more manufacturers in the coming years,” said Robinson. “And the legislation would encompass future Georgia-based car companies, too.”
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